Nissan Introducing Smart Rearview Mirror Technology at the NY Auto Show [w/Video]

Nissan will stage the U.S. debut of its Smart Rearview Mirror at the New York Auto Show next week. The technology is the world’s first LCD monitor that helps provide clear rearward visibility unimpeded by traditional obstacles such as cargo, tall passengers, inclement weather or the design of a vehicle.

Smart Rearview Mirror, which allows the driver to switch between the LCD monitor and the traditional rearview mirror, will be showcased on the 2014 Rogue. The system is housed within the structure of the traditional rearview mirror, with a built-in LCD monitor that can be activated in place of the conventional mirror. A control located at the bottom of the mirror allows the driver to access either the traditional rearview mirror system or the Smart Rearview Mirror.

A high-resolution camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle provides the driver with a clear, unobstructed view of the rear flanks, avoiding traditional rearview obstructions such as the vehicle’s C-pillars. The camera projects a clear image – a wider and clearer view than a standard mirror – onto the monitor for a better view.

In addition, the Smart Rearview Mirror is said to provide a clear image in a variety of environmental conditions including rain, snow, dawn and dusk. Nissan executive vice president Andy Palmer says the technology also “offers the possibility of new and exciting designs for our upcoming models, ensuring that appearance no longer has to be compromised for visibility and functionality.”

Nissan plans to implement the Smart Rearview Mirror in the ZEOD RC race car for the 2014 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as other NISMO race cars. The technology will be introduced to global markets over the next few years after an initial rollout to Japanese customers this spring.

By Dan Mihalascu

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